Can you imagine the tension? With just 0.4 seconds on the clock, the fate of the Phoenix Suns hung on a single free throw. Jordan Goodwin, under immense pressure, delivered the clutch shot, securing a nail-biting 99-98 victory over the Golden State Warriors. It was a game of wild swings, questionable calls, and ultimately, sheer grit.
The game, played on Thursday night, December 19, 2025, saw Devin Booker explode for 23 of his 25 points in the second half, carrying the Suns through a tough battle. But here's where it gets controversial... Was it really Goodwin's free throw that won the game, or did a series of events leading up to that moment truly decide the outcome? Think about it: every possession matters, especially in a game this close.
The final seconds were a whirlwind. Stephen Curry, ever the cool customer, sank two free throws with 21.7 seconds remaining, knotting the score at 98 apiece. The Suns then had possession, and Dillon Brooks attempted a three-pointer that missed the mark. Goodwin, alert and determined, swooped in for the rebound and was fouled on his putback attempt. The crowd held its breath as he stepped to the line.
Goodwin's first free throw clanked off the rim. The tension was palpable. But he calmly sank the second, giving the Suns a one-point lead. The Warriors had virtually no time to respond. Brooks finished with 24 points for the Suns, while Collin Gillespie chipped in with 16.
Now, the story doesn't end there. These two teams are set to clash again on Saturday in San Francisco for the second game of their home-and-home series. Expect fireworks! And this is the part most people miss: these back-to-back games often reveal a team's true character and ability to adapt. Will the Warriors seek revenge, or will the Suns build on their momentum?
The Suns' victory wasn't without its share of drama. A flagrant foul by Brooks in the final minute nearly cost them the game. With Phoenix leading 96-91 and only 38.3 seconds left, Brooks was called for a Flagrant 1 after making contact with Curry's stomach on a three-point attempt. Curry converted both free throws, and Jimmy Butler followed with a clutch three-pointer of his own, tying the game at 96 with 35.5 seconds remaining. That flagrant foul call could be seen as extremely harsh, or absolutely necessary. What do YOU think?
Butler led the Warriors with an impressive 31 points. Brandin Podziemski contributed 18 points on efficient 8-of-11 shooting, while Curry, uncharacteristically, struggled from the field, scoring only 15 points on 3-of-13 shooting (2 of 9 from beyond the arc). This was a significant drop-off from his 48-point explosion against the Trail Blazers just days before. Could fatigue have been a factor, or did the Suns simply execute their defensive game plan effectively?
Adding to the Warriors' woes were their 20 turnovers. Giving the ball away that many times against a team like the Suns is a recipe for disaster. The Suns capitalized on these mistakes, turning them into crucial points. Early in the third quarter, Golden State had built a comfortable 62-48 lead, but Phoenix mounted a furious comeback, tying the game at 66 on a Booker three-pointer. The Warriors managed to take a narrow 71-70 lead into the final quarter, setting the stage for the thrilling finish.
At halftime, the Warriors held a 53-46 advantage. Butler had already racked up 16 points for Golden State, while Brooks led the Suns with 20. However, Phoenix struggled with their shooting in the first half, converting only 37% of their attempts. How much of a difference do you think that percentage made?
So, what are your thoughts on this game? Was the flagrant foul justified? Did the Warriors' turnovers ultimately cost them the victory? And most importantly, who do you think will win the rematch in San Francisco? Jump into the comments below and share your predictions!
